To evaluate the use of the 30 Hz RETeval(TM) handheld ERG device in diabetic and glaucoma patients in the office setting.

Methods

The RETeval(TM) (LKC Gaithersburg, MD) is a small handheld ERG device using adhesive skin electrodes in lieu of contact lens electrodes to assess cone function in patients without mydriasis. The RETeval(TM) is currently in Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials (US FDA, and EC, respectively). RETeval(TM) (REv) was used in patients with diabetes mellitus and glaucoma patients in a retina practice in San Jose, CA. Inclusion criteria: Diabetic pts HbA1c > 6.0 mg/dL or FBS > 100 mg/dL; Glaucoma patients were verified by visual field findings. Visual acuity was 20/15-20/40. The Stata statistical software program was used. For each patient, ERG data from only one eye was used, based on randomization by coin toss. Informed consent was obtained.

This small study suggests that prolongation of flicker implicit times in diabetes and glaucoma can be discerned with the RETeval(TM) in a clinical setting. The RETeval(TM) may thus be of value as a screening tool in nursing homes or facilities where ophthalmic exams are not available.